Chivas USA signs Rodolfo Espinoza

Chivas USA announced on Wednesday that it has signed playmaking Mexican midfielder Rodolfo Espinoza, a veteran of the Mexican First Division who most recently played with Universitario in Peru, as an International Player. Espinoza, 29, will be eligible to make his debut for the Red-and-White on Thursday, July 15 against Puebla F.C. in the team’s opening match of SuperLiga 2010, pending the receipt of his International Transfer Certificate. Per league and team rules, terms of the contract were not disclosed.

“Rodolfo is a dynamic player who gives us another look in the midfield,” said Chivas USA Head Coach Martín Vásquez. “He’s a proven midfielder and can help us continue to strengthen our attack. We’re excited for him to get started.”

“I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to play in MLS,” said Espinoza. “I know that Chivas USA has high expectations and I am very excited to achieve great things with this club. It is a great group in the locker room and I’m looking to adapt very quickly.”

Espinoza, a native of Guasave, Sinaloa, Mexico, began his professional career at Necaxa of the Mexican First Division, where he played from 2002-2008, appearing in a total of 78 matches and scoring eight goals. He has spent time with other Mexican First Division clubs, including parts of 2006-2007 on loan at Atlante, and 2008-2009 with Chiapas, where he played 35 matches. Since 2009, Espinoza has played for Universitario in Peru, where he scored five goals in 36 games. Espinoza also played in the Copa Libertadores with Universitario in 2009 and 2010, and has made appearances with the U-20 and U-23 Mexican National Team.

Chivas USA kicks off its third-straight participation in SuperLiga this Thursday, July 15 against Puebla F.C. of the Mexican First Division in a 7:30 p.m. PT match at The Home Depot Center in Carson. New signings Paulo Nagamura and Giancarlo Maldonado will also be eligible to play for the Red-and-White. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please call 1-877-CHIVAS-1 or visit cdchivasusa.com/superliga.